Salesian Father Savio Silveira has been appointed as the coordinator for integral ecology in the Salesian Youth Ministry Sector for the term 2025-2031. This appointment comes at a critical time when climate anxiety and ecological degradation are becoming increasingly important global issues. Father Silveira has previously served as the Mumbai provincial and has been a key figure in the Don Bosco Green Alliance, a global network of over 600 Salesian institutions across 90 countries.
The new role marks a significant shift in how the Salesian mission engages with Pope Francis’ encyclical Laudato Si’, which emphasizes the importance of “integral ecology” that links care for creation with care for the poor, the young, and the vulnerable. Father Silveira believes that ecological engagement is a core dimension of Salesian youth ministry and must be woven into the educational and pastoral fabric of the organization.
The Salesian General Chapter 29 and the 2025-2031 plan issued by Salesian Rector Major Father Fabio Attard reinforce the importance of ecological engagement and the need for every province to promote formation in ecological awareness. Father Silveira emphasizes the importance of supporting young people in identifying local concerns, analyzing root causes, and implementing concrete solutions to ecological issues.
He believes that young people are not just participants but protagonists in the Salesian ministry and must be supported in their commitment to the common good. Father Silveira’s experience with the Don Bosco Green Alliance has shown him that young people across continents are eager to engage with ecological issues as leaders, and he is hopeful that the Salesian organization can respond decisively to the “cry of the earth and the cry of the poor.”
The appointment of Father Silveira reflects a broader trend in the Church towards integrating ecological concerns into youth formation, social justice, and spiritual renewal. As the new coordinator for integral ecology, Father Silveira is well-positioned to play a key role in promoting ecological awareness and action among young people and to support the Salesian mission in its efforts to care for creation and the most vulnerable members of society.